Research indicates that inadequate social, emotional, and campus support can make it harder for men of color to complete degrees, as can insufficient preparation or personal challenges outside of academic work. The Male Student Success Initiative (MSSI) at the Community College of Baltimore County is designed to support male students of color throughout their academic journey. This program is part of a movement to change narratives for men of color, in particular the narrative centered on their deficits rather than their achievements. 

MDRC's research team, which is part of the College Completion Network, is conducting an efficacy evaluation of MSSI’s program model through its Men of Color College Achievement (MoCCA) Project.